Myths exist in different cultures, times, and places,

and yet serve certain universal functions.

Origin Myths (ETIOLOGY) explain where something specific comes from, such as why there exists the phenomena of an "echo."

Creation Myths explain where everything comes from, how the world began, or what factors/forces started life on Earth.

Ritual Myths explain the performance of certain religious practices or patterns and are associated with temples or places of worship.

Cult Myths explain elaborate religious festivals that magnify the power of a deity.

Prestige Myths are associated with a divinely chosen hero or city or people.

Trickster Myths describe pranks or tricks played by gods or heroes.

Eschatological Myths describe catastrophic ends to the world order of the writers. These extend beyond any potential historical scope and deal with ultimate destiny.

Social Myths reinforce or defend current social values or practices, proper beliefs or behavior.

Myths may fit more than one category.